Maryland locals have a distinctive way of talking that reflects their unique culture, history, and love for the Chesapeake Bay. These sayings are often colorful, funny, and sometimes downright puzzling to outsiders. Here are 10 hilarious sayings you’ll only hear in Maryland, complete with the kind of humor and charm that make the Old Line State so special.
1. “Hi, Hon!”
A quintessential Maryland greeting, “Hon” is a term of endearment used by locals, especially in Baltimore. It’s short for “honey” and used for friends, strangers, and family alike. If someone calls you “hon,” it means you’re one of the gang—embrace it!
2. “We’re going downy oshun.”
Marylanders eagerly say this when they’re heading to Ocean City, the state’s beloved beach town. The phrase humorously twists “down to the ocean” into a unique local shorthand that outsiders might struggle to parse.
3. “Can you get me some warter from the zinc?”
Adding an “r” sound to words like “water” and “wash” is a classic Maryland speech quirk. “Zinc” is a regional term for the kitchen sink, so this saying means, “Can you get me some water from the kitchen sink?”
4. “You from Bawlmer?”
Baltimore’s name gets shortened to the quirky “Bawlmer.” This pronunciation shows the distinct Baltimore accent and is a marker of local identity.
5. “Wanna get a sno-ball?”
Sno-balls are a Maryland summer staple: finely shaved ice drenched in colorful, sweet syrup and often topped with marshmallow fluff. “Getting a sno-ball” is more than a treat—it’s a seasonal ritual.
6. “How ’bout them O’s?”
A rallying cry for Baltimore Orioles fans, this saying celebrates the city’s beloved baseball team. It’s used with hope, pride, and sometimes a little salty humor after tough losses.
7. “Will ya grab me a Natty Boh?”
Natty Boh, short for National Bohemian beer, is a cultural icon in Maryland, especially in Baltimore. Ordering a “Natty Boh” is a local way of bonding over a historic brew, even if it’s brewed outside the state now.
8. “They’re a bunch’a chicken neckers.”
“Chicken neckers” is a teasing term used by Eastern Shore locals for tourists or people from other parts of Maryland, referencing the chicken necks used to catch crabs. It’s both funny and playful regional ribbing.
9. “I shouted at him because he’d siced the situation.”
“Siced” means excited or hyped up, sometimes overly so. It can also imply someone exaggerated a story or reaction. This word adds a humorous and expressive flair to conversations.
10. “That’s a whole nother story.”
This phrase is used to divert or deepen a conversation, especially when gossiping or telling an elaborate tale. It’s a casual way to imply there’s a lot more to say—Maryland style.
Maryland’s sayings reflect its people’s warmth, humor, and pride. Whether you’re saying “hi, hon” on the streets of Baltimore, getting “downy oshun” for a beach day, or cracking jokes about “chicken neckers,” these expressions add a special flavor to Maryland life. They’re hilarious, endearing, and make you feel like you truly belong when you use them right.
If you want to sound like a native, sprinkle these phrases into your conversations and get ready to hear a friendly “Hey, hon!” in return.
These sayings showcase the spirited and quirky charm that makes Maryland’s culture stand out in the best way.
Sources
[1] https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/state-pride/maryland/maryland-phrases-md
[2] https://www.enjoytravel.com/us/travel-news/guides/maryland-slang
[3] https://wheninyourstate.com/maryland/18-maryland-slang-terms-only-locals-will-get/
[4] https://www.pinterest.com/routeoneapparel/maryland-memes/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/maryland/comments/1l572vu/common_used_phrases_in_maryland/
